ASK IRA: Is NBA legislating 'super teams' into oblivion?

Q: Ira, with the overall salary-cap situation in the NBA and the prevailing talk about mid- to low-tier players having almost an obligation to take less to give their existing teams "flexibility" to sign needed players, are the owners laughing themselves all the way to the bank, or is this the first volley in the demise of "super-teams," which have been instrumental in making the NBA a global brand with global appeal? The players must be looking at their own NBA players association reps in disgust, no (re the last CBA)? -- Patrick, Parkland.

A: Yes, the owners are having themselves a grand old time (except for perhaps the rare owner who loses a superstar, or one who is having to sweat out the LeBron James situation). And I have no doubts the players will seek a dramatic overhaul in the next round of negotiations on a collective-bargaining agreement. But I don't think "super teams" are done, just the salaries that star players will have to accept to keep such bands together. Other than NFL players putting up with shocking physical abuse on non-guaranteed contracts, no player in sports is playing at as much of a fiscal deficit these days as the tier of NBA players below the superstars.

Q: People are missing the issue that LeBron James rightfully should have with the fact that the Heat amnestied Mike Miller's contract. Yes, $17 million (or whatever the amount of tax they'd have paid) is a lot for Miller, but that's assuming the Heat were paying the tax for Miller. You could just as easily say that the contracts of LeBron, Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade were the reason the team was over the luxury-tax line, and if that's the case, aren't those three worth an extra $5.7 million each in tax payments per year? Heck, even an extra $17 million just for LeBron is worth it. Micky Arison should have considered it a "best player in the game" tax and paid up. -- Preston, Halifax, Nova Scotia.

A: Micky Arison hasn't had many missteps in his stewardship of the Heat, but that appears to have been one. Unless . . . unless he told James, Bosh and Wade ahead of time, "With the money we're paying you three, we may have to make a move like this and are you all on board with that?" If he did that, then it's another story.

Q: How come no team is copying the San Antonio Spurs? In the new CBA era, the Spurs have been to the NBA Finals two years in a row. They have no player making more than $11 million to $12 million a year. They seem to have figured it out before the rest of the pack, as usual. -- Stuart.

A: Because if it was a model so easy to follow, everyone would. First, it requires winning one draft lottery, building with David Robinson, then winning another, and landing Tim Duncan. Then it involves having the foresight to draft European prospects like Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili and having them arrive as ready-to-go prospects on below-market contracts. Then you have to find a team that allows you to turn George Hill into Kawhi Leonard. Yes, the Spurs' front office has done a remarkable job maximizing their possibilities, but sometimes good fortune goes a long way, as well. And let's be honest, I'm sure most NBA fans just over a month ago instead were asking: "Why can't our team do what the Heat did?"

July 6, 2014

Q: Ira, what about Bird Rights? Can't Micky Arison spend and then bring back his stars above the cap? -- Sandor.

A: No. When you use Bird Rights, you're not using cap space. Look, here's the simplest of math (to a degree oversimplified): A basic projection would have, using my best low-end guesses, LeBron James ($20 million), Chris Bosh ($16 million), Dwyane Wade ($13 million), Udonis Haslem ($2 million) and Shabazz Napier ($1 million) eating up $52 million (and you easily could argue more than that). Factor in the necessary cap holds to round out the salary cap (a required element), and that would bring the Heat up to $56 million in accounted-for space (and that's assuming the Heat could trade away Norris Cole's $2 million salary for a draft pick). That means the Heat would have about $7 million in cap space. Then, after using such space, you would have one additional $2.7 million salary-cap exception. That's it. So if you give that exception to Ray Allen, then you have to ask Chris Andersen to return at the veteran minimum (or vice versa). That's it. And everyone else on the roster gets the minimum salary, even if it means you might not have a true center or veteran point guard on the entire roster making above the minimum.

A: First, you could make an argument that Spoelstra has become somewhat of a closer, based on the way he bonded last summer with Greg Oden and closed that deal. Plus Spoelstra is somewhat of an ace on the hole, the way he has been able to transform his team to best accommodate the skill sets of LeBron, Bosh and Wade. While Riley can only offer limited dollars because of the Heat's salary-cap situation, Spoelstra can offer possibilities to how a player might unlock skill sets and make the game more enjoyable. Spoelstra helped craft James into more of a multi-positional threat, helped Bosh take his game to the perimeter (which, for better or worse, is an approach Bosh has embraced) and allowed Wade to play freely while off the ball. Erik Spoelstra very much is a Heat selling point. Of course, money remains more of a selling point.

Q: Can Shabazz Napier become a starter? -- Allan.

A: Perhaps eventually. But I can't fathom a team in championship-contention mode, which I'm assuming will remain the Heat approach, starting a rookie, no matter where he might have been drafted. But I do like his maturity and believe he will find a way to contribute in his first year. But the Heat need to also carry a veteran, someone even with more experience than Cole. There are times when you need the right NBA play to be made, and done the veteran way.

July 5, 2014

Q: There is no question LeBron James is worthy of a max deal based on what he brings to the table every night. But my question is how can he say, "All I care about is winning. I just want win," in the exit interview and then demand max salary knowing with the CBA how prohibitive that is? Clearly, winning isn't all that matters to LeBron. I am a huge LeBron fan and do not want to see him leave, but this baffles me a little. Your thoughts? -- John.

A: My thought is no one knows what LeBron is thinking, because LeBron hasn't said what he's thinking. Instead, everyone is working through speculation, secondary sources and assumptions. When LeBron completes his deal, whenever he completes his deal, then we can assess it. It's like someone asking, "What did you think of LeBron's performance tomorrow night?" (Re-read that, you'll get the point.) You can't analyze his performance until he gives a performance, whether it's a game or a contract negotiation. Just as we assess his regular season and his postseason, we'll have ample time to assess his offseason . . . at the proper time.

Q: I don't see three to four players left in free agency that would put us over the top. What does Pat Riley see? Thanks. -- Scott, Los Angeles.

A: At this stage, he also does not see three or four players to put a team over the top. He already has those types of players. What he needs are three or four complementary players to help the players that will put the Heat over the top. And there are plenty of those still out there.

A: Because Pat Riley saw better places to spend his money, perhaps didn't view Hawes as the same fit as the Clippers. In free agency, everything is in the eye of the beholder. You'll only know if the Heat lost out on Hawes when you first see where that money instead went.

July 4, 2014

Q: If Mike Miller were still on the roster, regardless of the NBA Finals outcome to this just-completed season, would we still be in wait mode with LeBron James? Is this mainly about that decision to amnesty a player he obviously wanted to keep? -- John.

A: The simplistic answer is yes. The reality is that if cap space or roster flexibility was the concern, as Pat Riley said, then the move could have been made this offseason. No, it was about a significant luxury-tax savings, a move made with shrewd business sense in the wake of Miller's limited health and contributions. Was it shortsighted? In hindsight, absolutely. And LeBron reminded us of it almost nightly when Dwyane Wade was unavailable. The Arisons have gone above and beyond in their ownership of the Heat, but just like LeBron can have an off night, in retrospect the trust gained by retaining Miller would have been beneficial. The best way for the Heat to make the tax-savings approach worthwhile would be for the Heat to turn the $2.2 million Joel Anthony trade exception into something tangible, where the Heat could tell LeBron, "See what the tax savings got us?" As it is, if the Heat work with cap space this offseason, the Anthony trade exception will vanish.

Q: How would Anthony Morrow be any sort of improvement over James Jones? I don't get that one at all. Great spot-up shooter, but hardly a dynamic player. I'm not one of these fans under the illusion that we can make a major splash with the big names, but give me Jameer Nelson, Marvin Williams and Vince Carter or Shawn Marion before bothering with Morrow. I don't get that one at all. -- Mike.

A: It's all in the eye of the beholder, whether it's Pat Riley or LeBron James. Look, even Erik Spoelstra seemed to have a different view of James Jones than LeBron did. So clearly, if there is interest, it's because Riley would envision it as an upgrade. Cap space is way too precious to the Heat for any move not to be a tangible upgrade.

Q: I don't understand why LeBron or Wade and Chris Bosh have been silent. Do they blame Pat Riley, the Arisons and Spo for the team coming up short? Is LeBron that angry? The Heat won the Eastern Conference finals. Why isn't our core vocal about getting to the next level? What other team has been more successful than the Miami Heat in recent times? I'm not enjoying this offseason yet. -- Chet.

A: Yet. Free-agency is like Fourth of July fireworks. They hardly look impressive while still in their cases. Plenty of time remains for the Heat to fire things up.

July 3, 2014

Q: Ira, Carmelo Anthony has been (or is going to be) everywhere but with the Heat. Now, Pau Gasol is looking elsewhere. Why can't the Heat get anything going? -- Ed.

A: Look, this is not Game 6 of the Spurs' series, where everything is continuing to careen out of control. This is free agency, a game played at its own pace, with plenty of twists and turns. Remember, it was four years and one week ago when the panic alarm was sounding amid word that Dwyane Wade would be leaving the Heat to sign with the Bulls. Except it never happened. On the other hand, just because a player is linked to the Heat doesn't mean the Heat prioritized the player. Marcin Gortat, for example, wasn't one that got away. The Heat simply never had a chance to get to him, with the Wizards closing the deal before the Heat could bid. And there is plenty of reason for outside executives to paint a portrait of a Heat breakup, especially when they're courting the same players as the Heat. "Sources" sometimes say the darndest things, especially when it's to their advantage.

Q: With the cap room the Heat have now, could they make a trade where they just accept players and salary equal to that cap space, where another team wants to move that salary off their books? -- Mike.

A: Absolutely. And that's a facet many have overlooked. The question is whether an outside team would help facilitate the Heat. Actually, they could have dealt for Omer Asik had the Rockets waited, and maybe they should have.

Q: How come there has been zero news on Chris Kaman? He can score, rebound, and averaged a block a game. I would take him on the Heat for cheap. He'll make our team even more 2003. -- Steve.

A: Does that mean they have to add Darko, also? Kaman is the type of name who is more an end-game name, when minimums are the order of the day. He did have more than a few shaky moments for the Lakers last season, which makes one wonder whether it was a matter of fit or slippage.

July 2, 2014

Q: Ira, do the Big Three each have a few different contract permutations in place, dependent upon who Pat Riley is able to land? -- Jason.

A: Absolutely. And they have to, for this reason: Too much in free agency is fluid to say you need "X" amount of money to close any particular deal or deals. Plus, the league is very, very careful when it comes to collusion. And the last thing you want to advertise is that you have prearranged deals already in place. It's just like at the trading deadline: The other side is always trying to get a little bit more. Can you imagine the outrage from any of the Big Three if they find out Riley came up short on a targeted free agent over a measly few thousand? And the last thing the Heat would want anyone to know is how much space they're actually working with, since many free-agent negotiations work along the lines of: "What do you want?" "Well, what do you got?" Riley has parameters. The final say still belongs to LeBron James, Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade.

Q: I'm confused. You list Norris Cole as the only Heat player under contract, but you say he might get traded. So is he staying? -- Henry.

A: He might. Or he might not. It depends, ultimately, who else is along for the ride. If it's Cole, Shabazz Napier and then a journeyman veteran like Luke Ridnour, then he might. But if it's Napier and Jameer Nelson (or, pie in the sky, Kyle Lowry), then the Heat might be better off cap-wise to add a journeyman veteran at the veteran minimum and move Cole to gain about $1.5 million against the cap. That, of course, is if the Heat wind up using cap space. If they're an "exceptions" team, then Cole is an asset worth keeping, if only for a trade. As it is, rookie center Justin Hamilton also is under contract, albeit with no guaranteed money until Aug. 1.

Q: Enough is enough. If reports are true that James wants a max deal and will only sign a one- or two-year deal, let him leave. It is obvious after four years he is not of the Heat culture. There was no discussion when those players got together. It was, "I am taking the max and you two can discuss how you want to divide the rest." What a friend. -- Ian, St. Petersburg.

A: No one knows how it went down, but I would not have an issue if that's the way it did. He's the best player on the team, has been the best for four years, and deserves anything and everything he can get for his services. And if short-term deals keep the feet of Riley and the Arisons to the fire, that's not such a bad thing, either. LeBron gives everything he has every night. The gives him a right to take anything he can get.

July 1, 2014

Q: I understand that the Magic waived Jameer Nelson. Does he have anything left in the tank? -- Joel.

A: Enough for the Heat to take a look, possibly when they're in Orlando this week for their summer camp and summer league. While Nelson's play has declined in recent years, he could provide a mentorship in quick-guard school to both Norris Cole and Shabazz Napier. Or, possibly, he could replace Cole's $2 million salary at a quarter of that cost should he be willing to come aboard at the veteran minimum. It also would allow the Heat to move beyond Mario Chalmers without as much concern. In many other instances, Nelson might not have been an answer. For a team seeking low-cost alternatives so salary-cap and luxury-tax funds can be spent elsewhere, Nelson could have his merits. The Heat bypassed him when they drafted Dorell Wright, now they can make good a decade later.

Q: A big problem for the Heat last season was having somebody on the floor that could create his own offense when LeBron James was on the bench and Dwyane Wade was out. Bringing in Marvin Williams, Trevor Ariza and Rodney Stuckey does not solve that issue. Your thoughts? -- Patrick, Miami.

A: I agree, which is why I'm not as high on Ariza for the Heat, at his price point, as others. Yes, there would be a defensive upgrade, but it's not as if Ariza has been a stand-alone scorer. Perhaps Shabazz Napier can handle some of the off-the-dribble scoring. And I do think Stuckey might be able to offer some of that. But the Heat do need more than shooters to round out their perimeter scoring.

Q: Can the $2.2 million trade exception we have from the Joel Anthony trade be combined with Norris Cole to bring in someone at the $4 million price range? -- Andre, Miami.

A: No. Exceptions cannot be aggregated (although the mid-level can be broken into smaller increments for multiple players). Basically, if the Heat opt to utilize exceptions, it would be one exception per player.

June 30, 2014

Q: Why not sign Carmelo Anthony instead of Dwyane Wade? I know that is a cold-hearted thing to do, but Melo is the better player now. I know Riley's loyalty to Wade would not allow this to happen, but just a thought. -- Ian, St. Petersburg.

A: The pat answer to these types of questions long has been: Because no one will ever trust Pat Riley and the Heat again if they make such a move. For one, I think if players want their money, and desire a location, they're quick to forget about history. Remember, plenty of players signed to play for the Clippers after plenty about Donald Sterling was public knowledge. This reality is that the Heat have operated more as a partnership than a hierarchy these past few years. Wade has enabled Riley as much as Riley has enabled Wade. Pardon the cliche, but for better or worse, they're in this together. That doesn't mean that LeBron James, Wade or Chris Bosh couldn't be lured elsewhere. It just means that Riley and the Arisons are not going to pull any end runs. It's not who they are or how they operate.

Q: Ira, will Pat wait for possible amnesty players, too. -- Trader.

A: The amnesty week does not end until the third week in July, so that might be too long to wait. Plus, the Bulls, Spurs, Thunder, Hawks, Celtics and Grizzlies are the only teams still in position to utilize the one-time amnesty provision. So we're not really talking about many possibilities beyond, say, Carlos Boozer and Kendrick Perkins, with only 10 players still amnesty eligible. And remember, there then is a waiver bidding period, with the Heat unlikely to have the funds at that point to make a claim.

Q: Are Marvin Williams and Trevor Ariza really going to make this team that much better? -- Jeffrey.

A: This team has been to four consecutive NBA Finals. It doesn't need to get "that much better." What it needs is enough quality depth to alleviate concerns by LeBron and others of being run into the ground during the regular season, and the Heat being out of quality options deep in the playoffs.

June 29, 2014

Q: Ira, I understand Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Udonis Haslem being comfortable enough to commit themselves to the Heat. But that's not the impression I had of LeBron James at the end of the season. Why is everyone so sure he's staying? -- Tony.

A: Because I can't fathom him looking Dwyane and Chris in the eye, encouraging them to opt out, and then relaying a similar message to Udonis . . . only to then walk out on the three. To me, it would be unfathomable. Everyone -- including Pat Riley drafting Shabazz Napier -- did everything for LeBron this past week. Even Napier received a Twitter vote of confidence from LeBron both before and after the draft. LeBron has gone miles to rehabilitate his reputation, has stood front and center in Erik Spoelstra's "Band of Brothers" approach. It would be one thing if he acted independently, with the perfect right to then move on independently. Instead, between vacationing with Ray Allen and James Jones, meeting with his fellow Heat stars, and making a pointed statement about the Heat's draft, he has made himself a co-pilot with Pat Riley in the Heat's offseason. These coming days, and perhaps even weeks, will be filled with drama, but if LeBron James truly is a different person than the one who sat for "The Decision" in July 2010, then this decision is done. Too many have followed his lead in recent days for him to then up and lead elsewhere.

Q: How many premium players might the Heat add with the free $8 million to $10 million they now could have? Will they still have their exceptions (mid-level, mini mid-level, etc.)? -- Brian.

A: They will have their cap space, plus one $2.7 million cap-space exception, with everyone else having to fill in at the minimum, beyond Napier's rookie-scale deal. Basically, expect one significant component to be added, with the Heat then deciding whether that $2.7 million will go to another outsider, or whether it would be used to lure back Ray Allen or Chris Andersen. And I still think there's a chance Norris Cole is moved to create even more space, especially if Kyle Lowry is the free agent added.

Q: I know hindsight is 20/20. But the Big Three opt-ting out really makes getting that extra year for all of them via sign-and-trade back in 2010 a waste. We gave up multiple picks to the Cavs and Raptors, all for nothing. I understand that in the moment, getting the Big Three was pie in the sky and we were gonna do whatever it took. But those picks could have really helped fill voids now and in the future. Nothing replaces young talent at a relatively cheap price, which is what you get with a lot of first-round picks. Just wanted to hear your thoughts. Love the work you do! -- Jason.

A: What it did was allow LeBron and Bosh to work with higher starting salaries, as well as affording long-term security in case of a major injury. But as you surmised, it all was about giving up whatever was needed to get the job done. Just as it was comical back in 2004 when Heat fans were debating whether Caron Butler should be thrown into the Shaquille O'Neal deal . . . would you really have allowed the entire Big Three thing to be aborted over a few middling draft picks? It was the price of thinking outside the box.

June 28, 2014

Q: Ira, I see the Kyle Lowry to the Heat as a done deal was B.S. But the Norris Cole stuff seems to have legs. Does he go if they get another point guard? -- Karl.

A: If the Heat do make a move for Lowry, which certainly will be a consideration when free agency opens Tuesday, it would be a gambit that could come down to the type of salary cap space (if any) the Heat can clear. In that case, clearing Cole's space might be a factor. But remember, the Heat would have to find a landing spot for Cole, and don't have much, if anything, left to sweeten deals. With Shabazz Napier a keeper, I would doubt the Heat would want anything more than a minimum-salary point guard to round out such an equation alongside Lowry. But as became clear Friday, Lowry at the moment is more of an abstract than reality. So Napier, Cole and a minimum-scale veteran (Luke Ridnour) could be where it might wind up. For the Heat, it's all about A-list talent at this stage, with all the other pieces to be addressed afterward.

Q: Hello, Ira. Judging from highlight reels on YouTube, it seems like Shabazz is a shoot-first point guard. Am I wrong? How does that fit with the Heat? -- Jason.

A: As with everyone who jumps aboard, it's about making it fit. But there have been plenty of times, especially when Dwyane Wade sits, when it has been LeBron or bust with end-of-clock offense. Napier, with his creativity, should come in hand in those situations. And his ability to create his own shots should allow teammates to operate in space. As with everything handed to Erik Spoelstra, it's all about finding the right Napier game that meshes with the Big Three game (assuming everyone stays).

Q: It was a surprising deal with Michael Jordan helping Pat Riley get Napier. I guess that jersey in the rafters was good for something, after all. -- Shep.

A: You kidding, after the Hornets helped facilitate the Napier trade, the Jordan jersey is now going alongside the championship banners at AmericanAirlines Arena.

June 27, 2014

Q: Pat Riley, knowing Shabazz Napier is a player LeBron James wanted, traded for him to let LeBron know he would do "whatever it takes" to build a team that suits LeBron. Frankly, I don't see Shabazz as a difference-maker (although who knows?). However, this sends LeBron a signal. Hopefully LeBron re-signs at a good price, so that Riles can get the real pieces in free agency. -- David.

A: Look, if all it took to appease LeBron was moving up two spots in the 20s of the draft and giving up a pair of second-rounders, then it was a sound investment. That doesn't mean players taken later couldn't possibly amount to more, even next season. But the remake of the Heat is about far more than which player was selected Thursday. If the Heat are who they think they are, then there will be at least five players more significant to next season's team than Napier, and possibly even more. But unlike many draft prospects, Napier arrives at the top of his game. He is what he is after four seasons at UConn. At the least, that's a winner.

Q: Well the Heat got the guy that LeBron James wanted. So, by logic, it would seem the LeBron James will re-sign with Miami. -- Martin.

A: If only it were that simple, Far more significant is what Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and possibly even Udonis Haslem do with their contracts. For that matter, whatever veterans Riley can deliver in free agency will impact LeBron's approach far more than what transpired Thursday.

Q: Does drafting Napier mean Kyle Lowry is not option? -- Jeffrey.

A: No, it means the Heat's makeover at point guard merely has begun. It likely spells the end for Mario Chalmers with the Heat, and could possibly put Norris Cole's future with the team in doubt, since a veteran at the veteran minimum in place of Cole could save that Heat about $1.5 million against the cap.

June 26, 2014

Q: Ira, who's running the Heat, LeBron James or Pat Riley? LeBron has a high basketball IQ, but isn't it better to leave the basketball operation to Riley? -- Theo.

A: The Heat don't exactly have that choice at the moment, with LeBron clearly setting some ground rules for what he wants done. But the danger in resetting the team from LeBron's standpoint is that if he does re-sign, he likely still could return to free agency soon enough. And then the Heat could wind up like the Cavaliers, who eventually had a bunch of hand-picked LeBron choices and no LeBron, left wondering what to do with the likes of Antawn Jamison. The key is for Riley to finesse the situation to make LeBron feel like his suggestions carry weight. I think Pat Riley would be comfortable in telling LeBron that he tried for Carmelo Anthony but just couldn't make it happen. Just like when LeBron breaks the offense and runs his own play, sometimes Erik Spoelstra knows he has to smile and move on. So Riley likely will have to meet LeBron half way, allow LeBron to set the agenda, but then decide when to break off the play to the Heat's overall benefit.

Q: You've been talking for years about Samuel Dalembert commuting from his Boca home. If he's waived by the Knicks, could the Heat do it then? -- Baker.

A: Basically, a bunch of players with contracts that are only partially guaranteed or not guaranteed at all for next season will be part of trades either at the draft or during the early stages of free agency. Those are the type of bargains Riley could capitalize on, with John Salmons likely also to be in that group, as well. But I still would take a re-signed Chris Andersen over Dalembert. There is a reason Sam has bounced between so many teams.

Q: Ira, I like that the Heat worked out 40 players before the draft. That's almost as many as are in the entire draft. It tells me they plan to sign players who go undrafted. -- Wil.

A: Exactly. And if the players the Heat want aren't available when the Heat select, then it wouldn't surprising me if they dump their picks and load up with prospects for their summer camp that begins next week.

June 25, 2014

Q: In the spirit if overanalyzing all news, can we speculate that Ray Allen would not be leaning on returning unless LeBron James was going to stay? After all, they just went on vacation together. -- D.S.

A: At this time of year, you can speculate on anything, considering the free-agency signing period does not begin until July 1. But while Allen has made it clear that he wants to play alongside LeBron, that does not necessarily mean it has to be in Miami. The thing is, several of LeBron's Heat teammates, including James Jones, who also vacationed with LeBron last week, and even Chris Andersen, seemingly would prefer South Florida. So LeBron basically could have most of his band back, plus one or two prime additions, if Miami remains home. LeBron values locker-room cameraderie, especially what he has had these past four years. What Pat Riley has to convince LeBron (and therefore Ray, as well), is that there is a possibility for a more complete and well-rounded roster with the Heat. As I've writte, this is all about a series of dominoes that could fall into place, with Allen being one of them.

Q: Any chance of the Heat trading a first rounder for Iman Shumpert and still buying their way into the first round for some young talent? -- David.

A: Based on LeBron opting out, and therefore his desire for the Heat to work with cap space this offseason, not only don't I see the Heat trading for the locked-in salary of a veteran, but I could see Pat Riley either trading his pick or selecting a player who would spend 2014-15 overseas, in order to avoid being locked into a guaranteed salary for a first-round pick. An argument could be made that trading into the second round would make more sense, since those contracts are not guaranteed.

Q: This is one Heat fan that is chillin'. I fully expected LeBron to opt out. I expect Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh to do the same. I consider most of the stuff going on "white noise." When I hear final decisions made, I'll worry about it then. I believe LeBron will sign a two-year deal with an opt-out again after next season. Obviously, that's if he likes Pat Riley's game plan going forward. I believe that decision gives LeBron the most flexibility and options going forward, which I believe is his ultimate goal in this process. It gives him another year to see how it goes, how Wade's health holds up, and how the pieces Riley brings in work out. -- Bob.

A: So the sky isn't falling? (I've been locked inside my office, so I haven't been able to check.)

June 24, 2014

Q: My initial reaction to news that the Knicks were shopping Iman Shumpert for a late first-round pick was that it has Pat Riley written all over it! I got the following impressions from Riley's press conference the other day (among other things): 1. He's, as usual, not that committed to drafting a very young guy, but rather wants to replace old experience with younger experience. 2. And he wants Erik Spoelstra to get back to Heat basketball, gritty defense, etc. Shumpert is the quintessential Riley-type: He's cheap, and he's available for a draft pick (which Riley is historically loath to use). What are your thoughts? -- Mike.

A: That the Heat have to decide whether they want to maximize potential cap space during free agency, or find enough pieces to make one more run with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh at high salaries. Considering LeBron has until June 30 for his early-termination option, he essentially would have to sign off on such a deal in advance. Shumpert is due $2.6 million next season, as his rookie-scale contract comes to a close. And there are ongoing health issues there. But, yes, I agree that there would be more instant gratification there than with the No. 26 draft pick. Plus, it would be interesting to see if you could stack Shumpert and Norris Cole on top of each other.

Q: When Riley talks to Carmelo Anthony and opens his bag of rings (now fuller by two) on the table, do you think that will work? Heck, may as well put the Heat's five conference champion trophies on the table, too. If Melo is serious about winning, I don't see how he would turn down the Heat. -- Terrence, Tampa Bay.

A: This has nothing to do with a Pat Riley pitch. This has everything to do with a LeBron James pitch. The only reason Anthony became a Heat possibility was because of the LeBron-Carmelo connection. Pat Riley likely would be informed after the fact whether it's happening.

A: Actually, Chris Bosh is the furthest thing from a diva, arguably one of the hardest-working players with the Heat. A diva would not allow a coaching staff and a system to totally reinvent his game. He is a team player willing to put aside his ego for the greater good. He is the absolute opposite of a diva.

June 23, 2014

Q: Is there any possibility that Carmelo Anthony could talk to LeBron James about taking a pay cut so he could join him in Miami? -- Jorden.

A: This is where the NBA's tamper-free zone falls apart, this period between now and the supposed July 1 start of the free-agency negotiating period. While Pat Riley can't text, email or call Carmelo, there is nothing to stop his players from actively recruiting. For that matter, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh are represented by the same agency as Carmelo, so it's not as if the respective agents can't hash out all the numbers. Not only "could" LeBron talk to Carmelo before James' June 30 early-termination deadline, he absolutely has to, for both his sake and the potential benefit to the Heat. With this much at stake, it would be practically irresponsible for LeBron, Wade and Bosh not to drop in unexpectedly on Carmelo. Team recruiting begins July 1. Player recruiting begins . . . now.

Q: Do you expect D-Wade to opt out? -- Brian.

A: Yes, to work out a deal that works for both him and the Heat . . . but only if he is sure that any money reworked will ease the burden on all of the Big Three. I believe the Heat's stars would give up money for the right player. I also believe they, and not Pat Riley, will decide who that player should be. I'm not sure they're giving up anything of consequence for Spencer Hawes and Marvin Williams, or anyone else of that tier.

Q: If Wade and Bosh don't opt out then trade their [adjective and bad word]. -- Tyler.

A: Which is why is makes sense for them to opt out, so they can control their own destinies. As free agents, they cannot be dealt. And if they re-sign, there would be an extended period before they could be traded. But you also don't blow up a team that has gone to four consecutive NBA Finals. That's where Riley's "get a grip" urging comes into play. There is an end game that can work for the Big Three, for Riley, and for the Heat. That's what these upcoming days and weeks are about.

June 22, 2014

Q: Ira, with all the talk about Dwyane Wade having to "reinvent" himself, what about Chris Bosh? If Wade cannot put up big numbers every night or be that "1A" option, I think it's time Bosh concentrated on getting back in the paint and scoring more. He certainly has the talent. -- Harold, Wellington.

A: First, the Heat and Wade have to decide next season's approach. Will Wade again miss a third of the schedule, once again either start or not play at all? Or can he gracefully move into a sixth-man role, where his routine absences would not have as much overall impact? Much of that, of course, is up to Dwyane, but a lot of it has to do with what replacement options become available on the free-agent market. Also, if Wade does slide into such a sixth-man role, then how would Ray Allen fit into the mix? Does Wade have enough quickness left to play as a reserve point guard (which, of course, the Heat also might already have in Norris Cole). It is a complex lineup puzzle that starts with Wade. Only then can the remainder of the pieces fall into place, including Bosh's role in the hierarchy.

Q: I'm still numb from the thumping I witnessed in the last three games of the Finals and have been reading articles on the debacle. Now that Pat Riley has told Erik Spoelstra to reinvent himself, will Spo have his "LeBron James/Mavs" renaissance summer? And if so, what changes do you think we'll see next season? (I'm hoping less small-ball and a stable substitution pattern is on the list.) -- Larry.

A: To Erik's credit, he has evolved every season, not just after that 2011 NBA Finals flop against the Mavericks. He certainly has kept the Pacers on edge these past three seasons. Mostly, what he has done is play to the strengths of his rosters. He certainly would have played bigger this season if Greg Oden had panned out, and he assuredly would have played deeper if Michael Beasley had inspired more confidence. So, to a degree, it also comes down to what Riley provides him. Only then can he formulate a strategy.

Q: Isn't it weird LeBron went on vacation with James Jones and Ray Allen, and not Wade and Bosh? Don't you find this odd? -- Layla.

A: No. Don't overstate the friendships with Wade and Bosh as the ultimate factor in LeBron's decision. He grew close to several member of this season's roster.

June 21, 2014

Q: Pat Riley's new criticisms of Erik Spoelstra's defensive strategies bring a couple questions to mind: If Riley really felt the strategy was so bad, why didn't he order a change much earlier in the season? I mean any general manager, if he sees a problem with the approach, he makes a change in format. He does not wait until it's too late. Or perhaps Riley did have such a discussion and Spoelstra ignored it? -- Martin.

A: I don't think Riley ever gets involved to the point where he dictates strategy or the rotation, which is why it was surprising in Washington when it was Riley who said Greg Oden would be activated that night. Also, I'm not sure how simple it would be in midstream, with a roster constructed with Spoelstra's approach in mind, for such a dramatic change. This is all about playing the result. If there was another championship, or at least a stronger showing against the Spurs, then nothing would have been said, and "disruptive" would have again carried the day.

Q: Ira, could the Heat potentially trade Dwyane Wade to a talent-starved team and free up the cap space to sign the likes of Carmelo Anthony or upgrade the roster? -- Luis.

A: Wade, Chris Bosh, or, for that matter, LeBron James cannot be dealt until they bypass their early-termination options (you cannot trade an impending free agent). And considering the lengths the Heat supposedly have gone to keep co-captain Udonis Haslem with the team, I can't fathom any scenario where Wade is moved without his consent, -- Luis.

Q: Did you hear the latest rumor? It’s bad news for us Heat fans. Kevin Love to Golden State for Klay Thompson, David Lee and a first-round draft choice. Is there any doubt whatsoever that the Warriors are angling to get LeBron James after next season? Since Andrew Bogut comes off their books at the end of next year, all they have to do is find someone to take Andre Iguodala off their hands, and Golden State can offer LeBron a max contract, and pair him with Steph Curry and Kevin Love. I don't think LeBron could handpick a better pair to join (young pieces who fit), and to do it in a great city with a great fan base, and a new arena on the horizon. -- Richard.

A: This, Heat fans, is what you'll be dealing with this week, this month, this summer, and (should LeBron continue on a year-to-year basis with the Heat) for months to come. If it's not rumors, it's reports of LeBron and Micky Arison have a slap fight while dining on Whoppers. Ah, welcome to the Summer (and possibly longer) of LeBron.

June 20, 2014

Q: I thought Pat Riley's tone Thursday was kind of paternal, like a father defending his children, but also challenging them and not being one iota scared of what they might have to say about it. Like, "This is the way it's gonna be and if you don't like it you can leave, but you'd be stupid to." I don't recall ever seeing Riley like this. It was clear he had pent up these feelings for a while. He knew exactly what he was going to say and how to answer every question. And yeah, he was pissed. I think his aim was to quash any seed of thought LeBron might have about leaving. And, to me, this is what has set Riley apart from LeBron's former team and probably any other team in the league: Riley has the [nerve] to tell LeBron how it's going to be and he has the "street cred" with what to back it up. LeBron respects him probably more than anyone in the league. -- Moshe.

A: He better. Because otherwise, it's a heck of a gambit by Riley. If LeBron stays (which I believe he will), Riley's position with the team will never be stronger. But if it didn't work and LeBron leaves, it's a heck of a lot more than an error in judgment. It's the end of an era as we know it. I also think it comes down to this: Riley would not be long for the Heat if LeBron leaves. I just don't think Riley would want to have to lead another major rebuild (just like he stepped aside coaching after the 15-67 season). So I think Thursday was Riley saying, "I still want to lead, and I still want to lead you, but you have to commit to my trust." So now we wait to see if an exhale can follow.

Q: I think if the Big Three opt out and re-sign for less money, the financial sacrifices should not be solely on the players. Great players like Carmelo Anthony are available and Micky Arison has to be willing to sacrifice as well, even if it means going over the tax. We need to take advantage of having the greatest player in the game by surrounding him with the best talent possible. If not, I fear the Heat organization will regret it. -- Mike, West Palm Beach.

A: I think it's important to clarify something here: If the Heat add another free agent to the current Big Three, it will be via cap space. And the only way to do that is to fall completely out of the tax. So if it is a Big Three-plus one approach in free agency (with Carmelo or Kyle Lowry or Pau Gasol), then the Heat will not be a tax team at all. The real question is if the Big Three return and the Heat add another player at the taxpayer mid-level and utilize their trade exceptions, would Arison then go deep, deep, deep into the tax with raises for Chris Andersen, Ray Allen, Rashard Lewis and perhaps even James Jones and Mario Chalmers, for services rendered during a pair of championships seasons?

Q: Hi Ira, why would the Heat trade away picks to Cleveland and Toronto to be able to sign LeBron James and Chris Bosh to longer deals when they can just opt out and renegotiate? Can you please explain the logic? -- Brian, Tallahassee.

A: Because it allowed James and Bosh to get higher starting salaries. But you logic is sobering. For example, consider this harrowing possibility: If LeBron signs with the Cavaliers (not saying it's going to happen, just offering a hypothetical), the Cavaliers would still get the 2015 first-round pick the Heat owe them for the LeBron sign-and-trade deal from 2010. And without LeBron, the Heat's 2015 pick could have value. Talk about your ironies.

June 19, 2014

Q: Was it a mistake to use the amnesty provision on Mike Miller? Setting aside whether he could have helped against the Spurs, having the option to amnesty Dwyane Wade would have given the Heat more financial flexibility, or at least leverage in getting him to accept a pay cut. -- David.

A: Amnestying Wade would not have been realistic had the Miller move been bypassed, especially this summer, since you're still paying out the full salary, the $42 million he is due the next two seasons. That's a lot to pay a player not to play, especially when he could come back to play against you. And it's not as if Wade still isn't a quality contributor, certainly nothing less than Manu Ginobili, at minimum. Getting beyond salary, the question is Wade's role going forward. It's not as if he wasn't essential in getting past the Pacers. And it's not as if he's not essential to the Heat going forward. Sometimes we get too caught up in the money. Dwyane Wade is a very good NBA player who had a not-so-good two weeks against the Spurs. But keeping Miller would have made it easier on LeBron James and the rest of the roster on those nights when Wade wasn't available during the regular season. In the end, amnestying Miller might have been penny-foolish, since it gets LeBron to wonder about franchise frugality going forward. Remember, just a year ago, it was Pat Riley was who raving about how essential Miller was to the franchise. And for those late to the game, amnesty is a one-time allowance, which the Heat used last July on Miller. So it no longer is an option for the Heat with any player. What amnesty does (or in this case, did) is wipe out the salary-cap and luxury-tax hit, but you still must pay out the full salary to the player, minus a portion of what he might sign for elsewhere. Also, that player cannot return until his amnestied contract expires. Since Miller had two seasons on his Heat deal when amnestied last July, he cannot return to the Heat under any means until July 2015, at the earliest.

Q: Despite non-stop speculation about what LeBron is going to do, there is one scenario no one has mentioned: accepting a drastically lower salary, like $5 million or $10 million per year. Sort of like Mark Zuckerberg working for $1. LeBron has made hundreds of millions in salary, endorsements and his stake in Beats. -- D.S.

A: First, he'd run into plenty of resistance from his fellow players and the union, since it could pressure other stars to minimize their deals. It's one thing to step away from the maximum salary, another to be earning Spencer Hawes money. And for others who have asked, getting a piece of the team, any team, also is not allowed. It's interesting how after making the NBA Finals four consecutive years that so many are asking (demanding) Heat pay cuts. Based on the groundswell, Wade apparently is lucky he got paid at all after that 15-67 season.

Q: The Spurs lucked out with Tim Duncan, but since then they have not chased marquee names. Gregg Popovich values players with heart who accept his iron-fist rule of team play. He is similar to John Wooden who insisted his teams follow a strict team protocol, where individual success was not important, but effort was. The teams the Spurs easily beat had players with egos who thought the team revolved around them. -- Leonard, Aventura.

A: Look, it takes a certain type of player who willingly stays long-term in San Antonio, with no disrespect to the small-market atmosphere. So perhaps it goes hand in hand that a player who chooses to put roots down with the Spurs is the type of player with limited ego.

June 18, 2014

Q: Ira, you could tell from Tuesday that Chris Bosh loves it here. I'm not worried about him. I am worried about LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. LeBron didn't sound committed, and Wade went into hiding. -- Sid.

A: Tuesday was just rhetoric, although it sure seemed like if Pat Riley walked into the room, Chris would have signed on the dotted line right there and then. LeBron is different. He wants assurances that he will have a livelier supporting cast next summer, and the best way to do that is to hold Riley to the fire, and probably opt out just to make the Heat sweat, and work on upgrades. As for Dwyane, I think the Finals left him with questions that even he can't answer. The best answer might have been the candor of that his body simply let him down. That's at least a place you could go to work from. But there is no mandate a player participate in the postseason media session, and several other Heat players bypassed the interviews, as well. But you're right, it doesn't look good when LeBron and Bosh face the fire, and Wade is a no-show.

Q: Does Wade go from loved to hated if he doesn't rework his contract? -- Robert.

A: I've heard a lot of that, and that's just silly. At worst, Wade will be at the same place Dan Marino was at the end of his career, when Dolphins fans called for a replacement. And while it didn't end well for Marino, he remains a South Florida icon, one with his jersey hanging at AmericanAirlines Arena. Dwyane Wade's South Florida legacy is secure. And the only ones who should vilify him are the ones who walk into their own offices and tell their bosses to please take some of their salary back so potential replacement can be hired.

Q: Is Greg Oden coming back? -- Wilson.

A: I don't think so. I'm not sure the Heat believe he can work in their style, and I'm not sure Greg wants to go through another season stuck at the end of the bench. Erik Spoelstra's testimonial Tuesday was a lot more about praising Oden for the effort he made to return, rather than the efforts Oden made on the court. The reality is the Heat likely would be benefit more with Cole Aldrich next season than Oden.

June 17, 2014

Q: There needs to be a substantial overhaul of the Heat roster. Every position needs big improvement. They need to get younger. -- Erikk.

A: The Heat are in no position for substantial overhaul if LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh all return. That can't happen. What can happen is the three agree to opt out and then decide what outside players would be worthy of bringing in at a sacrifice of their own salaries. Essentially, it would be the Big Three in a room with Andy Elisburg's calculator trying to make the math work. For Carmelo Anthony, they might sacrifice a bunch. For Luol Deng, perhaps not so much. But there is little realistic possibility of them sacrificing for several smaller pieces. An overhaul would likely mean no more Big Three. James, Wade and Bosh hold all the cards, including how the roster is reshaped. And even then, it still will require efficient and effective veterans at the minimum salary.

Q: I have owned a piece of Heat season tickets since 1990 and have followed the NBA since 1960. This Heat team of the last four years has been a remarkable team. Under incredible scrutiny, LeBron always displayed class and he showed up every night to play, even those mid-winter games in Milwaukee. To make the NBA Finals four years running is an achievement worth remembering. This year the streak ended against an incredible team that was motivated by last year's loss. Given the record for futility of other professional teams in South Florida, we should celebrate this team, the coaching staff and management, and hope that Pat Riley figures out how to evolve to face new challenges next year. -- Bob, North Palm Beach.

A: Well said. And worth saying. It has been exhilarating, exhausting, excruciating, but, ultimately, enjoyable. And it's not as if it's over yet. Eastern Conference champion might not have been the consolation prize sought, but it sure beats those 15-67 seasons.

Q: Am I the only one missing Joel Anthony after watching the terrible defense this season? -- Mike, Weston.

A: Yes.

June 16, 2014

Q: Same strategy; same results. Even you have to admit this series was not a good one for Erik Spoelstra. Yes the Spurs were better in every way, but the "Heat way" of doing things was exposed. -- Mack.

A: I honestly think with Chris Andersen a step slow, still clearly bothered by that thigh bruise sustained against the Pacers, with Dwyane Wade a shell of what he was the previous round, there wasn't much more Erik could have done, other than try to get the very best out of LeBron. He adjusted constantly in the series, perhaps even too much. But to give up on a system that helped you motor through the previous rounds would have been foolish at the outset of the Finals. And you could also see that he did not have as many quality pieces at his disposal as Gregg Popovich. Spoelstra eventually recognized he did not have a point guard, at all. And James Jones, Udonis Haslem, Michael Beasley only get you so far at this level.

Q: The Miami Heat spent their entire season in fourth or fifth gear and when it came time to flip that switch to get to the next gear, they didn't have it. Just as you have been saying for four seasons, playing the "we can flip the switch when we want" card is a dangerous game. -- George, Toronto.

A: And yet with the volume of games they have played these past four years, and with Dwyane Wade's iffy knees, who's to say that if they pushed hard throughout they even would have made these four Finals? Popovich didn't push too hard either, he just had more quality pieces at his disposal.

Q: Assuming the core of the team comes back, and a few pieces are added, do you see Erik Spoelstra adjusting to a more conservative approach defensively? The current system, while effective, is demanding and clearly takes a lot of effort and commitment. -- Daniel, North Palm Beach.

A: I think he will adjust based on his system. Without a big-minutes shot blocker, playing disruptive gave this team the best chance. I think players just lost the passion for the system along the way, or grew too fatigued, perhaps as much mentally as physically.

June 15, 2014

Q: Ira, isn't this series a defeat for Pat Riley vs. R.C. Buford more than Erik Spoelstra vs. Gregg Popovich? Riley just hasn't gotten the blame for failing to put the pieces together for LeBron James, even with the financial restrictions. He has always taken the easy way out and not taken the time to develop and scout like the Spurs. "Just go buy me some superstars and if it doesn't work, destroy the team and try again." -- Howard, Palm City.

A: Look, at times like these I can appreciate the frustrations. But Riley first put together the Big Three, then added pieces like Shane Battier, Norris Cole, Ray Allen and Chris Andersen that helped produce consecutive championships, something the Spurs have never had and won't even if they finish off this series. The difference is when Riley got his prime lottery shot, he wound up with Michael Beasley; when Buford and the Spurs got their prime lottery shot, they landed Tim Duncan (after David Robinson). An argument could be made that with more youth and less experience, the Heat never would have been able to get LeBron those first two titles. And if not for Riley's veteran bent, and the moves for Antoine Walker, Jason Williams and Gary Payton, there likely wouldn't have been the 2006 title, either. Riley and Buford succeed in different ways. But they both succeed.

Q: I had the Spurs in seven. My expectations for the series were that the Spurs were simply the better, deeper team, playing better than the Heat. So losing the series won't be the end of the world. I'll gladly take another four years in the Finals with two more championships. But in these last two games, the lack of focus, intensity, urgency and whatever other adjective you want to use has been stunning. How to explain this? That is the disappointment here, not so much that we lost, but the way we are losing. -- Bob.

A: I agree. It is one thing to go down with a fight. It is another to leave this type of aftertaste. Pride should resonate more than it has these past two games. In Game 5, every play has to matter for the Heat. There can't be anything loose, lazy, loafing. That's where reputations are sullied, not by the final score alone.

Q: So the quest for redemption may actually be a stronger motivation than the quest to three-peat. You can tell Spurs want this bad, the way their coach prepared for this series (or this season for that matter) and the way the players have executed. -- Neil, Manila.

A: Sort of like the hunger the Heat displayed coming off the 2011 loss in the Finals to the Mavericks. Now the question is whether the humiliation and embarrassment of Games 3 and 4 are enough to inspire the Heat in time for Game 5, or whether such disappointment first must burn for an entire offseason.

June 14, 2014

Q: Here's to the Heat Big Three somehow finding a way to three-peat and then Dwyane Wade saying, "I've had an amazing career, but my knees are shot and it's time to retire." The Next Big Three: LeBron James, Chris Bosh, Carmelo Anthony. -- Shep, Washington, D.C.

A: Dwyane Wade is not leaving $42 million on the table. There's "sacrifice", then there's $42 million of sacrifice. Loyalty has its limits. And Dwyane Wade in the right role still has significant value. But that also means coming to grips with where he stands, what he can do, and what he no longer can afford to try to do. Look, at times this postseason Wade has been brilliant. But when the shine is off, such as Thursday's Game 4, the luster is completely gone. There no longer is a "1" and "1A" dynamic with Wade and LeBron. There can't be. But the issue in this series is there is too much standing still on offense, waiting for LeBron or Wade for a bail-out shot. That doesn't work against the Spurs. And once they Heat get too passive on offense, they wind up less sharp on defense.

Q: If somehow the Heat can obtain Carmelo Anthony as the Heat's Big Three take pay compromises, and if LeBron and Wade took turns defending point guards, then the opposing team would be forced to use their point guard to guard Wade and the two-guard has to guard James or Carmelo. Mismatches all over. Of course, Wade can only be counted on for half the games. But it's a nice luxury if that happened. In all reality, a case can be argued Heat need a Carmelo Anthony more so than they need a Chris Bosh. -- Martin.

A: Totally disagree on the last point. Bosh has bought in to the Heat's approach and sacrifices. With any outside player, you don't know if that would happen until it happens. In fact, for all the Anthony conjecture, an argument could be made that what the Heat really need is size, and a point guard. Put it this way, if Joakim Noah or Chris Paul were free agents, that would make more sense for salary sacrifice than adding Anthony. As I wrote previously, if you're sugges